Best Southern Lunch in Philly: Deke’s Bar-B-Que

Good food, good drinks, good times. That’s the Deke’s Bar-B-Que motto, and exactly what you’ll find at this Philly restaurant celebrated for tender ribs and melt-in-your-mouth brisket. We caught up with owner Jackie McBeth to get the scoop on the slow-cooked meats and signature sauces that keep hungry Philadelphians coming back to Deke’s for more, and more, and more.

Why do you think consumers voted Deke’s Bar-B-Que Best Southern Lunch in Philly?

I think they just really love our barbeque at lunch. We’re really popular when we go on-site with Fooda – we always sell out of our mac and cheese!

What’s the inspiration behind the menu at Deke’s?

My husband developed the concept. He wanted to pull from all the classic barbeque regions – western Carolina, Texas and St. Louis. Each of these areas has a signature sauce that defines the flavor, which we make from scratch with ripe, local tomatoes when possible.

What would you say is the most popular dish?

Our brisket is a big time seller. Ribs are also really popular, especially the St. Louis Style Spares and Deke’s Baby Backs. 

Do you have a recipe we can share with readers at home?

This is the recipe for our Berry Cobbler.

Ingredients:

• 2 Qt of Fresh Strawberries, sliced
• 2 Qt fresh Raspberries
• 2 Qt Blue berries
• 2 Qt Black berries
• 1/2 lb butter
• 1 box white cake mix

1. Mix all berries in a bowl and sprinkle with sugar to release natural juices
2. Spray a baking dish, fill the dish with your mixed berries
3. Sprinkle a box of white cake mix on top of berries
4. Melt 1/2 pound of butter and drizzle on top of cake mix
5. Bake for about 25-30 minutes on 325 or until golden brown. Serve with ice cream fresh whipped cream and enjoy!

What are some food trends you’re seeing in Philly and the barbeque scene?

We’re fortunate that barbeque is still a popular food trend. We’re noticing that more people are getting together as groups, having friends over and drinking their own craft beers at home. We get huge takeout orders on weekends.

Do you have any exciting plans for Deke’s Bar-B-Que in 2017?

We do! We’re looking to expand Deke’s to a third location, possibly in the suburbs, by the end of the year.

The foodies of Philadelphia have spoken and voted Deke’s Bar-B-Que the Best Southern Lunch in Philly! The next time you’re in the mood for finger lickin’ good barbeque (or mac and cheese), make your way to Deke’s for a taste of the best Philly has to offer.